The upcoming winter is a much-anticipated season across the country because it offers some respite from the oppressive heat and sporadic downpours of rain. Winter, as pleasant as it may be, nevertheless brings with it frigid and dry winds. Your skin and hair become brittle and scratchy as a result of harsh weather, which is just natural. In addition, there is a strong likelihood that we may catch a cold or the flu, therefore we must take extra precautions to take care of ourselves. The timeless knowledge of Ayurveda can be helpful in this situation. Following is a list of some Ayurvedic foods that might keep you warm and healthy this winter:
Turmeric: Winter brings along the availability of fresh Turmeric and Amla in the market. These two ingredients are used widely to prepare pickles or salads. It can be prepared by adding a pinch of salt and a dash of lime juice to fresh and soft turmeric and amla. They offer various health advantages in addition to having a delicious taste.
Indian households frequently employ the herb turmeric, which is best recognized for its curative and anti-inflammatory effects. For ages, people all around the nation have used this miracle plant to treat scrapes, wounds, and bruises. Turmeric consumption has several advantages, not the least of which is the improvement of immunity, which offers crucial protection against colds and flu, especially in the winter. The three doshas—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha—can be balanced with the help of turmeric, according to Ayurveda, which also claims that it makes the body stronger and healthier overall. You may consume your recommended daily intake of turmeric by eating these delectable Turm Candies.
Ashwagandha: Ashwagandha, sometimes referred to as Indian ginseng, is well known for its calming effects on the body and mind of users. It increases vigor and vitality in people of all ages and lessens normal wintertime fatigue and drowsiness. Additionally, it keeps you warm and reduces your risk of getting the flu and the common cold. It also lowers cortisol levels, which helps to ease stress and anxiety.
Ghee: Ghee, the Indian version of butter, comes from organic sources. Essentially, ghee is among the healthiest foods you can take during the chilly, dry winter. This is due to the nourishing elements that ghee is rich in, which hydrate and moisturize you from the inside. The lubrication ghee provides in the body allows the various body components to perform their functions with ease. Additionally, it has abundant amounts of butyric acid and vitamins A and E. Ghee is a great supplement to your winter diet because it helps keep your body warm.
Saffron: As explained in our Saffron 101 blog, Saffron is not just a taste and smell enhancer, it is very crucial from a wellness point of view. The sunny spice is especially popular during the winter months since it can help prevent colds and viral illnesses. It also helps maintain the body temperature by providing warmth to the body and helps in improving the skin complexion. High quantities of antioxidants found in saffron support a healthy pregnancy, hormone balancing, and PMS relief. Finally, this Ayurvedic herb improves mood and helps regulate stress.
Jaggery: To satisfy all of your sweet tooth needs during the winter months in the healthiest way possible, jaggery, also known as ‘Gud’, is the perfect sugar substitute. Included in our traditional foods like Rab, Gud Paapdi, and Meethi Paak which are consumed in the winter season have various health benefits. According to traditional Ayurvedic teachings, jaggery promotes healthy digestion and prevents gastrointestinal issues. Jaggery, especially during the winter, boosts energy and reduces symptoms of drowsiness. Jaggery’s high iron and vitamin C levels are thought to be particularly helpful for treating chest congestion and other respiratory conditions. Additionally, it helps soothe an inflamed or sore throat.
Ginger: Ginger or Adrak is an extremely common sight in Indian kitchens, apart from being aromatic and pungent, it also houses a list of medicinal benefits and has been used in numerous home remedies over the centuries. Recognized for its capacity to calm upset stomachs and reduce motion sickness. According to studies, its volatile oils have anti-inflammatory qualities that can aid with headaches, menstrual cramps, and cold and flu symptoms. Additionally, it aids in keeping your body warm in the winter, which is another benefit of including ginger in your diet
Additional Tip: You can also consume Nisarg Nutrition’s Kuff Candy to ensure that you stay away from diseases like cough, cold, and sore throat. The candies are a mix of cardamom, cinnamon, corn syrup, ginger, piper longum, and sugar.